CDL Requirements in Maryland

The following comes directly from the MD DMV department:

CDL Medical/Physical Requirements

You must have a valid MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate (A “MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate” is provided by a National Registered Medical Examiner only. For additional information, please contact www.fmcsa.dot.gov.), or a photographic copy of your valid Certificate, to receive a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or other commercial license product (e.g., commercial learner’s permit). The Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card) is a federally mandated (U.S. Department of Transportation) document that certifies you meet all physical and medical standards for operating a commercial motor vehicle and the original or photographic copy must be in your possession whenever you are driving.

If you are not able to meet certain standards, you may still be able to obtain a federal (interstate) exemption or waiver, or an MVA (intrastate) waiver which must kept with your MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate (A “MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate” is provided by a National Registered Medical Examiner only. For additional information, please contact www.fmcsa.dot.gov.). Note that the MVA’s waiver restricts you to driving in Maryland ONLY.

How do I obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card)?

To obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card), you must be examined by a doctor. In some cases, your employer or prospective employer will make the arrangements.

The doctor who sees you must complete a medical examination report and certify that you meet the federal qualifications included in Section 391.41(b) Title 49 CFR (Federal Motor Carrier Regulations). The doctor will also complete, sign and give to you the Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT card), noting any restrictions, including the need for a federal or MVA waiver. The MVA has a medical examination report available that is titled MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate (A “MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate” is provided by a National Registered Medical Examiner only. For additional information, please contact www.fmcsa.dot.gov.). This form can be used by your doctor, or the doctor may use another medical examination report as long as it meets federal standards.

The MCSA-5876 - Medical Examiner Certificate you receive can be valid for up to two years; the doctor who examined you will determine the card’s expiration date.

All commercial drivers whose current medical certificate expires on or after May 21, 2014, must be examined by a medical professional listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners. The National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners is a new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) program. Only medical examiners that have completed training and successfully passed a test on FMCSA's physical qualification standards will be listed on the National Registry.

If your current DOT card was issued before May 21, 2014 it will still be valid until its expiration date.